The Bible is such an amazing life-giving book. For a Christian, learning and living out its truths is a significant spiritual discipline. However, even the most seasoned believer can at times become inattentive and uninspired while perusing the Scriptures.

Today I want to challenge you to consider the condition of your time spent in the word of God. To better gauge where you are in this discipline, ask yourself these questions:

• Does my time in Bible reading/study look any different than it did one, ten, twenty years ago?
• Do I understand what I’m reading?
• Am I putting into practice what I’m learning from the Scriptures?
• Is there an enjoyment and anticipation in reading God’s word, or boredom and apprehension?
• Do I read the Bible daily or on a hit-and-miss routine?

Before going any further, let me encourage you to NOT fall prey to the comparison game between your reading and studying habits verses the practices of others. We are all different in how God made us and where we are in our spiritual journey.  You need to seek God for where you need to be, not where someone else may think you need to be.

Now, if you feel your time in the word of God could use some empowerment and rejuvenation, check out these suggestions as you ask Him to open your eyes to His remarkable truths.

• Try reading from more than one translation, especially for hard to understand passages.
• Purchase the Bible on CD for trips in the car; download Scripture on your phone and listen while walking/exercising/cleaning the house/cooking/etc.
• Read the Scriptures aloud to keep your mind from wandering off into never-never-land.
• Write memory verses on 3×5 cards. Place them around the house; in your purse; in your car; at work.
• Use a devotional book to help you focus before you begin your time in the Word.
• While at home, keep a Bible within easy reach of the kitchen or living room. Take/make time to stop and read it.
• For easy access while on the computer, add sites like BibleGateway.com and blueletterbible.org to your favorites.
• Right now, grab your Bible and dig deeper: Psalm 119: 11,103, 105, 147-149, 169; Luke 11:28; Acts 20:32; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 4:12.

Revived by His word,

Beverly <><

Photo Credit: FreeImages.com/James Lin.